Jack Pruett, 77, of Oquawka, IL, passed away on Sunday, September 28, 2025 at Southeast Iowa Regional Medical Center, West Burlington, IA.
He was born on August 7, 1948 in Burlington, IA, the son of Wilbur and Barbara (Delabar) Pruett. Jack was raised and educated in Oquawka and graduated from Union High School in 1966. He later graduated from Carl Sandburg College in Galesburg, IL.
Jack proudly served in the United States Army from 1968 to 1970.
On August 17, 1975, he married Lou Tims in Monmouth, IL; She survives him.
A lifelong farmer and dedicated cattleman, Jack worked the family farm with passion and pride. His deep love for the land and livestock defined much of his life. An avid outdoorsman, Jack especially enjoyed deer and duck hunting. He served as Chairman of Ducks Unlimited for 20 years, demonstrating his commitment to conservation and wildlife.
Jack was also actively involved in his community. He served on the Union School Board from 1981 to 1985, and later on the Farm Bureau Board from 1994 to 2001. His leadership extended to the DeLabar Mississippi Youth Park, where he played a vital role in fundraising, park maintenance, and held multiple officer positions.
Jack was a passionate car enthusiast who took great joy in collecting classic automobiles, especially Corvettes. He loved nothing more than taking them out for a cruise, enjoying the open road. Jack enjoyed going on the Hot Rod Power Tour for many years with Lou.
Jack cherished his role as a “Keyholder” in Melburg’s Early Morning Association, and was a proud member of the Melburg Winter Service Team, affectionately known as the Plowed Plowers.
Surviving Jack is his wife, Lou Pruett of Oquawka, IL; his children, William (Shari) Pruett of Gladstone, IL, Kyle (Kindra) Pruett of Biggsville, IL, Lindsey (Robert) Pogue of Rockford, WA; his grandchildren, Paisley Pruett, Athena Pruett, Viveka Pruett, Arya Pruett, Oliver Pruett, Finley Pogue; and his siblings, Becky (James) DeWitt of Oquawka, IL, Charlie Pruett of North Carolina, Linda (Rich) Kulp of Oquawka, IL, Donna (Len) Whalen of Mt. Pleasant, IA.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
A Celebration of Life will be at 3:00 pm., Saturday, October 11, 2025 at Mama’s Place (1002 North 7th St, Oquawka, IL). Cremation rites have been accorded. Memorials can be made to the Oquawka Ambulance Service or the Diabetes Association of America and can be sent to the funeral home. McGuire & Davies Funeral Home and Crematory, Monmouth, IL, is in charge of the arrangements. For more information or to leave an online condolence visit, www.mcguireanddaviesfuneralhome.com.
